Chapter 113: The Strife-laden Dwarf Kingdom (1/2)
Chapter 113: The Strife-laden Dwarf Kingdom
Translator: Tseirp
This time, taking into consideration that the monsters might appear from underground, we decided to not move via horses and walk on foot instead.
Together with the messengers from the Dwarf Kingdom, we formed a 7 men party and departed from Rockford.
“Luciel-sama, I believe that the situation wouldn’t change much even if we rush toward the Dwarf Kingdom now. It would be better if we have our meal first.”
“That’s certainly true.”
Lionel advised so we ended up having our dinner at that spot.
The 2 from the Dwarf Kingdom raised complaints.
But, Grand-san was in agreement with our decision so they could not speak out.
I did not bother to aid the 2 of them at all with the preparation of their meals.
“It sure is dark. It’s clearly different from Rockford.”
“Luciel-dono, there’s no helping it since monsters would be attracted if we illuminated the area with lights. Please use the torchlight.”
Grand-san and the others, as well as the messengers from the Dwarf Kingdom, possess the skill called Night Vision. Grand-san taught me that it was a skill that could ensure a certain degree of vision even among the darkness.
It looks to be a skill that can be nurtured and acquired in dark places and apparently the majority of the dwarves possess it.
“There’s no moonlight tonight but it won’t be a problem if we follow the route set by Kefin.” (Grand)
“That’s right. I believe I won’t get lost with the torchlight.” (Kefin)
“Kefin, I leave the directions to you.” (Luciel)
“Yes.”
As though advancing with only 5 men, we left the fake town.
Because the earthquakes had stopped after the Earth Dragon was released, there weren’t any holes that suddenly opened up on the ground.
Due to the combination of Cathy and Kefin detecting monsters, we quickly defeated them.
I held a sense of distrust toward the 2 messengers from the Dwarf Kingdom.
They did not take the lead to guide the way nor did they participate in the battles.
Moreover, due to them acting like it is natural, I could only feel irritated by them.
After walking for a while after that, Kefin called out.
“We’ve arrived. Looks like we are able to enter from here.” (Kefin)
“We’ll lead the way from here.” (Guraios)
“Come along.” (Aresurei)
The 2 dwarves called Guraios and Aresurei took the initiative and walked ahead.
I stood still there and looked at Grand-san.
” … I know what you want to say. I’m terribly sorry but please forgive what has just happened.”
Since Grand-san appealed to me with a quiet voice, I had no choice but to take a deep breath and gratify the 2 of them by following behind them.
The height of the cave leading to the Dwarf Kingdom was about 2 meters tall, similar to the path I took before I met the spirits.
“It does seem like it would be difficult to swing my greatsword here with this ceiling height.” (Lionel)
“You can swing your greatsword to your heart’s content if there’s combat when we reach the defensive line of the Dwarf Kingdom. You have no choice but to use a short sword for anything else though …” (Luciel)
” … It looks like I won’t have a turn this time so I’ll leave it to Cathy and Kefin while I defend Luciel-sama…” (Lionel)
“I’d prefer if you are slightly more enthusiastic about that task.” (Luciel)
The overtly disappointed Lionel only gave me a wry smile.
Even though he would definitely guard me when the need arises, maybe I should try to emulate that unshakable thirst for battle of a battle maniac like him.
As we walked along the winding path, the path split into 2. We could proceed without getting lost but monsters appeared at that point so we stopped.
I looked at Grand-san and kneaded my brow.
“I’ll leave it to you, Cathy. Kefin, you’ll lead the way.” (Luciel)
“Please wait. We will serve as the guides.” (Dwarves)
“Then quickly go ahead and defeat the monsters. For what reason exactly did you 2 travel out for?” (Luciel)
“” ……… “” (Dwarves)
“Grand-san … it’s alright, right?” (Luciel)
“Yeah.” (Grand)
“Let’s go nya.” (Cathy.)
Cathy kicked the ground, kicked the wall and slaughtered the ant monsters.
Kefin passed that by and began leading the way.
“I guess I might as well gather them.”
I followed while collecting the magic stones.
After that, we encountered combat multiple times but they still completely remained as ornaments who only watched from afar.
“It will be the Dwarf Kingdom after we turn this corner.”
The instant Kefin announced that, Aresurei ran ahead alone.
Everyone was at a loss for words. But, I was able to make a conjecture by looking at Grand-san.
” … Don’t tell me, you all are …” (TL: It’ll be explained in the next chapter. Feel free to take a guess though :D)
Just as I said that, a scream echoed out from within the cave.
Cathy and Kefin shoot out like bullets toward the bent path Aresurei went down.
Seeing that, we followed as well and saw the figure of Aresurei getting bitten on the shoulder by an ant.
The ant monster immediately turned into a lump of meat under Cathy’s attack.
“How is he?” (Luciel)
“He’s injured but it’s not life threatening.” (Kefin)
“Ha~. 「Recover」, 「Heal」.” (Luciel)
I cast with 「Chant Termination」 and ordered Kefin to shoulder carry Aresurei.
After that, we arrived at the Dwarf Kingdom almost immediately.
“Now then, it looks like it has become a battle, Lionel, please proceed to the defensive line.”
“Yes.”
Lionel’s face showed a momentary grin when I passed him his flame greatsword and a headlight.
“Cathy, cover my surroundings, I’ll first rescue and recover the wounded.”
“Nya.”
Cathy was full of smiles as well knowing that she would be following me to a combat area.
“Kefin, escort the 2 messengers back to the king and Grand-dono, please explain to the king that Kefin is my follower.”